Qatar players celebrate after defeating the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday night to secure their qualification for the FIFA World Cup.
Doha, Qatar: Celebrations continued yesterday after Asian champions Qatar sealed a memorable 2-1 victory over the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday night, securing their first-ever qualification for the FIFA World Cup through the Asian qualifiers.
Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani received the Qatari national team heroes at Lusail Palace to congratulate them on their historic achievement.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Thani and the Personal Representative of H H The Amir H H Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
Also present were Chief of the Amiri Diwan H E Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khulaifi, Minister of Sports and Youth and President of the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation H E Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al-Thani and President of the Qatar Football Association Jassim Rashid Al-Buainain along with a number of senior officials.
Led by head coach Julen Lopetegui, Qatar displayed remarkable resilience in the must-win Asian qualifiers play-off. Second-half headers from Boualem Khoukhi and Pedro Miguel, both assisted by Akram Afif, gave the home side a commanding lead.
Needing only a draw to progress, the UAE fought back with Sultan Adil’s stoppage-time goal. Qatar, reduced to 10 men after substitute Tarek Salman was sent off in the 89th minute, held firm in the closing moments to secure the historic win.
The result means Qatar will compete in their second consecutive FIFA World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Their previous appearance came as hosts in 2022.
Scenes of jubilation erupted at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium following the final whistle, with celebrations continuing as the team paraded through the city. Jubilant fans lined the streets to celebrate the historic achievement.
Qatar striker Almoez Ali praised the team’s performance.
“All the players were heroes with the level they showed on the field. Qualifying for the World Cup finals has a special flavor and came after a difficult match. We are happy with this achievement, which is a credit to the Qatari football system. We look forward to making our upcoming participation in the World Cup exceptional in every way.”
Goalkeeper Mahmud Abunada, who made crucial saves in only his second international appearance, also credited the supporters.
“Qualifying for the World Cup finals is a joy for the people. We must thank the large crowd that came to support us and their presence had a significant impact on the result.
The match was difficult, as we expected, but everyone fought hard to achieve this historic World Cup victory.”
Veteran forward Sebastian Soria, who made a remarkable return to the national team after eight years, expressed his pride.
“I am happy and proud to have qualified for the World Cup. This generation of players deserves this achievement and the chance to play in the World Cup for the second time. Honestly, I am lucky to be back with the national team at this time after being away for a long period.”
Qatar will discover their group-stage opponents when FIFA conducts the official draw for the 48-team global showpiece in Washington, D.C. on December 5.
FIFA president congratulates Qatar
FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Qatar in a video message posted on social media.
“After your historic hosting of the tournament in 2022, your team returns to the world stage, ready to demonstrate your growth and ambition, especially as this is the first time you have made it through the Asian qualifying competition. A great footballing achievement.
"Fans from Qatar will bring colour and energy to North America in 2026, and all eyes will be on the next chapter of your football history. Celebrate this moment and prepare for another unforgettable FIFA World Cup adventure.”
Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa also congratulated Qatar and Saudi Arabia, who progressed from the other Asian qualifiers group.
He noted that the qualification of both national teams reflects the distinguished position of Qatari and Saudi football within the Asian football landscape.
